Grade 10 at SelfDesign is an exciting milestone! It’s a chance for learners to dive deeper into their interests, connect with a community of like-minded peers, and take more ownership of their learning journeys.
While the transition from Grade 9 to 10 comes with new responsibilities, it also brings incredible opportunities for personal growth, creativity and self-discovery. Best of all, learners are never alone—strong relationships with their learning consultant (LC), learning specialist (LS) and peers ensure plenty of support along the way.
So, what’s new in Grade 10? Let’s take a look!
Grade 10 introduces a new learning approach that encourages self-motivation, time management, and deeper engagement with learning. Parents step back a little, and learners continue a strong relationship with their LC, who guides them through their learning journey. In addition to the LC, the learners are introduced to their new theme LS who offers weekly connection and expertise with the weekly theme challenges (assignments).
Learners will choose one of eight engaging interest-led themes for their course load. Each theme includes three to four core courses plus specialized electives tailored to their chosen topic.
A typical learning week includes completing 20+ hours of curated content and activities, with learners submitting weekly challenges for assessment to their LC.
Learners can earn optional “micro-credentials” by participating in real-time theme meetings. In the grade 10, learners also build a portfolio of their learning journey, and write two Provincial Assessments of Numeracy and Literacy.
Grade 10 also brings more chances to connect! Learners can join weekly theme meetings, Open Spaces, online clubs and groups and even in-person camps.
What are themes all about?
At the end of grade 9, learners select a theme (one per semester) based on their interests for the following year. There are eight themes to choose from depending on what the learner feels most curious or passionate about, allowing them to find a community with common interests or goals.
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- Animals
- Healthy Living
- Outdoor Adventures
- Arts and Crafters
- Lens on Life (photography)
- Storymakers
- Imagineers (STEAM-related ideas and visions)
- Life Gamified (Gaming and the online world)
Learners are welcome to choose add-on courses such as maths and languages, allowing them to personalize their learning journey further.
MySELF themes are available for learners working towards a School Completion Certificate on replacement competencies (modified program). This offers a more relaxed pace with additional support from an education assistant, tutor or parent/caregiver.
Ways for learners to prepare during grade 9
There are a few ways for your learner to get a better grasp of what’s coming in grade 10 while they’re completing their grade 9 school year. Here are some suggestions for them to consider:
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- Learn to log into their own SelfDesign user account
- Attend grades 8-9 Theme Real-time Meetings and Open Spaces
- Practice communicating directly with their LC either in writing or Zoom
- Explore certain Challenges in grades 8-9 theme classes:
- Week 24: Learning in Community
- Week 25: Engaging in Grade 10
- Week 26: Personalize your Learning
- Week 28: Reach your learning goals
Tips from learners in grades 10-12
SelfDesign high-schoolers are rooting for learners heading into grade 10! Every year the Learner Council hosts an information ‘Campfire’ where current grade 10+ learners share insights and answer questions. Here are some of their golden nuggets of wisdom:
- “Approach everything with curiosity. Always reflect on your goals and desires–there are so many ways to get to the finish line!”
- “Connect, connect, connect! Engage often and communicate openly with your LC. They are here to help you succeed, so make sure to meet with them every week. Learning isn’t meant to happen alone, and it’s ok to ask for help if you feel stuck!”
- “Attend those Theme Real-time Meetings! Gathering with peers and strengthening connections with educators provides valuable insights and support.”
- “Flex those time-management muscles! To avoid stress and mental overload, start learning early in the day, and don’t wait until the end of the week to get everything done. Pace yourself and stay consistent. Keeping your desk, notebook and room organized will make everything easier.”
- “If the thought of learning assessments gives you anxiety, remember that this is totally normal. The trick is to pour that mental energy into preparation instead of overthinking.”
Embracing the adventure
Grade 10 is a big step, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to explore, connect and grow. There will be challenges, but with curiosity, patience and support, learners can navigate them with confidence.
